A University of South Alabama biomedical sciences student from the College of Allied Health Professions is studying in Italy this summer as the 2010 recipient of the Nowlin-Caldwell Scholarship for study abroad.

Julia Sunde of Mobile and a graduate of Theodore High School received the award in May. The honors student, who recently completed her freshman year, is currently enrolled in International Studies Abroad: Business, Studio Arts and Liberal Arts at Florence University of the Arts and Apicius International School of Hospitality where she is studying the foundations of painting.

The Nowlin-Caldwell Scholarship is for a University student who graduated from Murphy High School and who is an interdisciplinary studies major. When no qualified applicants fulfill that criteria, any University student is eligible.

While accepting the award, Sunde said she looked forward to immersing herself in an unfamiliar environment and returning with a new understanding, respect, and appreciation for the area's citizens and culture.

"Individuals from all nationalities should take the opportunity to learn about and accept one another and become aware that such experiences are enjoyable," said Sunde, who also supports increasing participation in the study abroad program.

Sunde's interests in foreign places was supported by her parents who came to America from Norway. As a result, foreign travel and interests were a part of her home life.